August 27 to 30, 2024, Busuanga and Coron, Palawan – The Coastal Conservation and Education Foundation, Inc. (CCEF) participated in a significant learning exchange activity focused on Responsible Seafood Sourcing (RSS) and Sustainable Financing in Marine Protected Area (MPA) Management. This event was part of the USAID INSPIRE Project, through the Gerry Roxas Foundation, Inc. (GRF).
The learning exchange aimed to gather insights from established strategies adopted by People’s Organizations (POs) in Palawan, particularly in the areas of Responsible Seafood Sourcing (RSS) and community-based MPA Management. The event provided a platform for participants to observe firsthand the implementation of these strategies, offering a deeper understanding of sustainable practices and their institutionalization.
Participants were engaged in various activities, including site visits to MPAs and RSS facilities. The activity showcased the conservation-based sustainability mechanisms employed by Local Government Units (LGUs) in Busuanga, such as the Sagrada-Concepcion-Bogtong MPA operations. Participants were introduced to the income-generating activities, financial flows, and legal frameworks that empower POs to manage these areas effectively. The Siete Pecados, Seaweeds Marketing Cooperative, and Shalom Women-Managed Mangrove Area (WMA) also presented their ongoing MPA activities, demonstrating how community-driven efforts can lead to successful conservation outcomes.
One of the highlights was the visit to the Bogtong Fish Processors Association, where participants observed the ongoing RSS practices in fish processing operations. This provided valuable lessons on how small-scale fisheries can meet market demands while adhering to responsible sourcing standards.
The Responsible Seafood Sourcing (RSS) Standard, a tool developed to deter illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, was a focal point of the discussions. This standard, although not a certification, plays a crucial role in improving legal compliance and promoting social and environmental responsibility in the Philippine seafood supply chains. It encourages fisherfolk associations to consolidate responsibly sourced seafood products and engage in ethical business practices.
Beyond learning, the event also fostered collaboration among Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), Local Government Units (LGUs), and community leaders. By sharing successful community practices and engaging with supply chain actors, participants gained a clearer understanding of how to implement and institutionalize sustainable strategies in their own sites.
The insights and strategies gained from this learning exchange will be instrumental in shaping the future of marine conservation efforts under the Protect Danajon Project. With the support of the USAID-GRF, CCEF is committed to enhancing governance structures and stakeholder capacities to protect the Danajon Bank Double Barrier Reef, ensuring a sustainable future for the communities and ecosystems that depend on it.
